Lack of advancement in federal policy is being compensated for at the state level where many states are enacting ambitious climate change legislation.  Number one among them is California, which, with its enactment of AB 32 (the Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006), has become the U.S. state leader in climate change action.  AB 32 seeks to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to 80% below 1990 levels by 2050 using a mandatory statewide cap on emissions beginning in 2012.  In 2005, California enacted legislation authored by Assemblywoman Fran Pavley regulating tailpipe emissions.  In addition, California has initiated a partnership with the United Kingdom to collaborate on climate change research, technology, and best practices.  California is also working to link its carbon trading system to the Northeast’s Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative trading system.

Other states, including Arizona, New Mexico, North Carolina, and New Jersey, have also instituted comprehensive state climate change plans.  In a 2006 executive order, the governor of Arizona sets targets for an emissions reduction of 50% below 2000 levels by 2040.  New Mexico’s target of 75% emissions reduction below 2000 levels by 2050 will be accomplished through an increase in state renewable energy use, a Clean Cars Program, tax incentives for use of biofuels, and investment in energy efficient buildings. 

New Jersey took early action on climate change when it announced in 1998 that it would reduce state emissions to 3.5% below 1990 levels by 2005.  In 2005, North Carolina created a legislation commission on climate change to determine appropriate state action for global warming mitigation.

In addition, many regional associations have formed to take action on climate change.  The Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative, which comprises eight Northeastern states, has established emissions reduction targets and a regional carbon trading program.  The Western Governors Association, composed of 19 state governors, has adopted an initiative to increase energy efficiency and clean energy production in the West.